The series assumes critical importance as both teams enter the final phase of preparation for the Men’s and Women’s U-18 Asia Cup in Kakamigahara, Japan, scheduled from May 29 to June 6.
The final squads were selected following an intensive week-long National Coaching Camp, during which the initial pool of 42 players in each category underwent rigorous assessment. The selection process focused heavily on match fitness, technical execution, and tactical adaptability ahead of the international assignment.
Forward Ketan Kushwaha has been appointed captain of the Indian U-18 Men’s team, while Sweety Kujur will lead the Indian U-18 Women’s side.
The Indian Men’s Sub Junior team is being coached under the guidance of former Indian hockey star Sardar Singh alongside coach Rajnish Mishra. Speaking after the squad announcement, Sardar Singh said the camp had helped identify players capable of handling international-level competition.
He stated that the matches against Australia are not merely preparatory fixtures but a significant examination of the team’s temperament, discipline, and tactical strength under pressure. He further expressed confidence in captain Ketan Kushwaha’s leadership qualities and said the series would provide valuable exposure to the pace and aggressive structure associated with Australian hockey before the Asia Cup campaign in Japan.
The Indian U-18 Women’s side continues to train under the mentorship of former Indian captain Rani Rampal. Rani said the final 24 players demonstrated the highest level of consistency and improvement during the training camp, earning their place in the squad.
She said captain Sweety Kujur possesses the experience, composure, and tactical understanding required to guide the young team in a demanding international environment. According to Rani, the four-match series against Australia in Bhopal will provide the coaching staff with a clear assessment of the team’s strengths and areas requiring improvement before the Asia Cup.
The Indian U-18 Men’s squad includes goalkeepers Sawan Kumar, Ayush Rajak, and Vishal Bada. The defensive unit comprises Ansh Bahutra, Ashish Tani Purti, Arman Soreng, Deepakprakash Toppo, Karan Gautam, and Karan Dhanuk. The midfield department features Premchand Soy, Rahul Yadav, Varinder Singh, Romit Pal, Arjandeep Singh, Gursimranpreet Singh, Arshdip Singh, and Avi Manikpuri. The forward line consists of Akash Deep, captain Ketan Kushwaha, Shahrukh Ali, Gazee Khan, Prahalad Rajbhar, Siddharth Ben, and Jaysan Kandulna.
The Indian U-18 Women’s squad includes goalkeepers Mahak Parihar, Harry, and Khili Kumari. The defenders are Sugan Sanga, Nilam Topno, Rubina Baxla, Kiran Ekka, Divya Yadav, and Sulochani. The midfield unit features Shruti Kumari, Diya, Harshita, Rashmeen Kaur, Laminganbi Akoijam, Nancy Saroha, Tongbram Lanchenbi Devi, and Sneha Davde. The forwards include Nousheen Naz, captain Sweety Kujur, Priyanka Minz, Sandeepa Kumari, Nammi Geetashree, Princess Priya Ekka, and Pushpa Manjhi.
The upcoming series is expected to play a decisive role in shaping India’s preparations for the U-18 Asia Cup, offering both squads an opportunity to test combinations, assess tactical flexibility, and gain valuable international match exposure against one of the strongest hockey nations in the world.a
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